Are Your Bylaws Democratic?

Bylaws should be written and composed by members to represent how the governance of a program is administered. This checklist can be used by program directors, policy group and governing body members to determine if their bylaws are fair and includes the functions its members must carry out.

Do your bylaws give the final power to the members or to a board of directors?

If the bylaws give the power to the board of directors do they provide for ways for the members to bring business before the board to consider? Do they provide for a way for the members to reverse a board's action?

If the board has the power, do the bylaws allow for members to bring up new business at an Annual meeting or other general membership meetings?

Do your bylaws provide for the majority to rule?

Do your bylaws protect the rights of the minority and absent members by requiring a two-thirds vote to remove from membership or in amending bylaws?

Do your bylaws provide for a fair and equitable way to nominate and elect officers and board members? Do your bylaws provide for an impartial nominating committee and nominations from the floor?

Do your bylaws allow all members who wish to serve on committees the opportunity to serve?

Do your bylaws allow new members to be immediately active in the organization? Or do they provide for a "probationary" period? Is there a valid reason for this "probationary" period?

Do your bylaws provide for proper notification of removal from membership because of failure to pay dues?

Do your bylaws set the month and day for all meetings and for proper notification?

Do your bylaws set a reasonable quorum requirement so that meetings can be held?

Do your bylaws provide for a way to withdraw from the organization and from an office or committee assignment?

Do your bylaws provide for a way to fill a vacancy and perhaps declare a vacancy?

Do your bylaws provide for a way to remove someone from office or a committee appointment if they are not performing the assigned duties?

Do your bylaws provide for a way for members to call a special meeting?